There are many benefits to having a custom pool in your backyard. But this feature comes with a bit of responsibility because of the custom pool maintenance that needs to be done throughout the year. This maintenance is essential to protect your investment and ensure that you maximize the swimming pool’s durability and longevity.

In this article, we are taking a look at the most important maintenance tasks you need to prioritize. These pool care tips can be easy to implement when you have the right plan and tools for year-round pool care.

Regular Cleaning and Swimming Pool Maintenance

Keeping your pool clean is the first step. When people are swimming in the pool, it’s normal to have debris and compounds collect in the water. Even if you aren’t using the pool regularly, it’s still important to be proactive about keeping your pool clean.

Here is a simple pool cleaning checklist you can follow:

• Skimming and Brushing: Use pool skimming tools to gather any debris floating on top of the water. Brushing is also helpful in removing buildup on the floor and walls. Even if you don’t see any visible buildup, consistency with brushing will help to reduce the likelihood of algae growth (which can damage and stain the pool).
• Pool Vacuuming: A swimming pool vacuum is an effective way to clean up any particles or debris that is settled at the bottom of the pool. You can choose a robotic vacuum that moves around independently (like a Roomba for a swimming pool). Or there are handheld vacuums with long hoses that can be used for manual cleaning.
• Pool Filter: The filter collects things that are moving through the pool filtration system. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning the filter so that the water can circulate properly.
• Pool Tile Cleaning: Not only do you need to clean the swimming pool, but you also need to clean the areas around the pool. Use the right brushes and pool-friendly cleaning solutions to scrub the grout and tile to prevent discoloration and buildup.

Pool Chemicals and Water Chemistry Management

While the water pH levels need to be managed throughout the year, there are a few critical times when you should test the water and do a pool shock treatment. For example, make sure the water levels are balanced when it’s time for the spring pool opening. A little extra work might be needed if the pool has been sitting unused for a while. Then, at the end of the season, you will need to go through a fall pool closing checklist.

Follow this summer pool maintenance checklist to manage the water chemistry:

• Testing the Water: Simple kits can be used to test the water and check all of the chemical levels. Specific tests include pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and chlorine/bromine).
• Balancing the Water: After you have the test results, then it’s time to make adjustments as needed. Balancing the chemical levels is important to prevent damage and buildup in the pool, such as scaling, corrosion, and algae growth.
• Shocking the Pool: A pool shock treatment refers to a strong application of pool chemicals that help to eliminate bacteria and any other contaminants in the pool. This is recommended at the beginning of the season, after heavy use, or after a storm comes through the area.
• Pool Algae Control: Certain chemicals can be used to prevent algae growth and improve water clarity.

Equipment Maintenance and Repairs

When you are performing custom pool maintenance, make sure to check the function of all of the equipment. These features keep your pool in good condition and help reduce the risk of problems in the future. If there are any issues with the equipment, it’s a good idea to take care of the repairs as soon as possible to prevent more expensive repairs in the future.

• Pump and Motor: The pump and motor keep the water flowing through the filtration system. These features should be inspected and maintained. For example, clean the strainer basket and lubricate the moving parts to keep it in good condition.
• Heater: Servicing the pool heater ensures that you can maintain a comfortable water temperature throughout the year. We recommend an annual inspection and maintenance so that you can sustain efficient operations.
• Filter: It’s normal for the filter to collect debris – that’s what it is designed to do! You need to clean the filter regularly to remove the debris so that water flows through the system effectively.
• Automatic Cleaners: Using automatic tools can reduce the manual labor for your summer pool maintenance. If you invest in an automatic pool cleaning tool, make sure to read the instructions and follow the specific steps to keep it working while it is in the water.

Does Your Pool Need Winterization?

If you aren’t planning to use the pool during the winter months, then you’ll need to follow a winter pool care checklist:

• Lower Water Levels: The water level needs to be lowered so it is below the skimmer and return lines. Lowering the water levels helps to prevent freezing in the lines.
• Draining Equipment: Before it gets too cold outside, make sure that all of the equipment is drained: the pump, filter, heater, and other equipment.
• Winterization Chemicals: Certain chemicals can be used to winterize the pool, with the goal of preventing algae growth and scale buildup when the pool is not in use.
• Pool Cover: Make sure to have a good pool cover to protect it throughout the year.

FAQ

What are the best tips for keeping your custom pool clean all year round?

Regular cleaning tasks should include skimming, brushing, vacuuming, filter cleaning, and maintaining the water chemistry.

How to properly clean a custom pool filter?

Proper cleaning strategies depend on the type of filter you are using. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Call the Experts for Pool Installation

If you need help with swimming pool installation, then our experienced team is here to assist. Contact Mid City Custom Pools to learn more about these services so you achieve your dreams of having a backyard swimming pool to share with your family!